White Blend

White wine has existed for over 2500 years. In this case, “white blend” refers to any white wine that contains more than one white grape varietal in the final product, though certain white blends can have their own designations as recognized wines despite being comprised of multiple grapes.

For much of the history of European winemaking, white blends were commonplace due to the practice of consolidating grapes from vineyards across a given area. One famous example of this practice can be found in White Bordeaux, which originated in the 18th or 19th century using grapes such as Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle. Other white blends have since emerged throughout the world, though this category of wine has remained significantly overlooked compared to its red blend counterpart.

In addition to the popularity of red blends, white blends have also been overlooked due to a modern association with lower quality table wines. However, many high-quality wine producers elect to produce white blends, and these wines can, in fact, offer many unique and delicious flavors due to the winery’s ability to custom design their flavor profile. In recent years, white blends have been catching on quite rapidly as more attention is given to innovation in the winemaking arena.

Fast Facts

Parents & Origin: Blend of white grapes (e.g. Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc)

Grape: small, spherical, white-green skin

Flavors: Citrus, white fruit, dried fruit, apple and many others

Notable Regions: worldwide

How to Serve White Blends

White Blends Serving Temperature

38-45ºF (3-7ºC) or 45-55ºF (7-12ºC) depending on their richness

Wine Glass for White Blends

White wine glass!

How Long to Decant White Blends

0-30 minutes

How Long to Age White Blends

Varies

White Blend Flavor Profile

Notable Flavors:  Citrus, White Fruit, Dried Fruit, Apple and many others

White blends are prepared from a variety of white grapes, usually crushed and fermented individually before blending takes place. In the case of novel blends, finding the right combination often requires blending trials in which the winemaker tastes the wine and offers suggestions. Of course, traditional white blends can follow age-old recipes such as those of White Bordeaux, Sauternes, or White Rioja. Compared to most varietal whites, many white blends offer significant bottle aging potential. Flavors also vary, though in general, most white blends will have notes of citrus and white fruit. As with any white wine, white blends are best served chilled.

For delicious White Blends from around the world, shop Martha Stewart White Wine.

Food Pairings for White Blends

White blends vary in flavor, body, acidity, and alcohol content, but as a general guideline, they are most likely to pair with lighter dishes.

Meat

Seafood

Light fish

Chicken

Turkey

Cheese

Camembert

Brie

Cheddar

Gouda

Havarti

Monterey Jack

Muenster

Parmesan

Swiss

Vegetables

Garlic

Mushrooms

Sweet Potatoes

Lentils

Peppers

Onion

Herbs & Spices

Parsley

Basil

Rosemary

Cilantro

Avoid These Dishes 

The vast range of white blends means that with the right choice, there are very few foods to avoid. As a general rule, however, white wines are typically avoided with particularly rich or heavy dishes, including most red meat-based entrees.

Recommended Dishes

1. Pesto chicken
2. Shrimp scampi with a light cream sauce
3. Fish tacos 

White Blends Recap

Since the dawn of winemaking, producers have been blending white grapes to produce exciting flavors beyond that which can be achieved with a single varietal. Modern wine enthusiasts have come to recognize the potential of a good white blend, whether from a classic recipe or a brand new mixture. It is difficult to generalize all white blends due to the immense variation between them, but be sure to keep them on your radar as a good bottle is sure to impress with the right pairing or occasion.